Course Title: Manage the operation of stage monitor systems

Part B: Course Detail

Teaching Period: Term2 2021

Course Code: PERF5081C

Course Title: Manage the operation of stage monitor systems

School: 375T Vocational Design and Social Context

Campus: City Campus

Program: C5349 - Diploma of Live Production and Technical Services

Course Contact: John Phillips

Course Contact Phone: +61 3 9925 4913

Course Contact Email: john.phillips@rmit.edu.au


Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff

Teacher: Paul Tipping / Greg Long

Email: paul.tipping@rmit.edu.au / greg.long@rmit.edu.au

Nominal Hours: 70

Regardless of the mode of delivery, represent a guide to the relative teaching time and student effort required to successfully achieve a particular competency/module. This may include not only scheduled classes or workplace visits but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.

Pre-requisites and Co-requisites

None

Course Description

The ability to effectively operate sound equipment is crucial to working in the live production industries.

In this course you will plan, set up and operate stage monitor systems for performers in live productions and events.

Individuals who apply these skills are expected to display a high level of initiative and judgement as they take responsibility for addressing the on-stage mixing requirements of each performer in a group.


National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria

National Element Code & Title:

CUASOU502 Manage the operation of stage monitor systems

Element:

1. Plan stage monitor systems

Performance Criteria:

1.1 Analyse performance and venue information to inform planning of stage monitor systems

1.2 In consultation with relevant personnel, confirm requirements and timeframes for stage monitor system set-up and testing

1.3 Prepare stage layout diagrams with proposed placement of stage monitor equipment

1.4 Select appropriate stage monitor loudspeakers or in-ear monitors and associated cabling for each required send

1.5 Ensure adequate monitoring and communication systems are in place for all relevant personnel

1.6 Ensure availability of in-ear or wireless equipment and accessories

Element:

2. Manage the set-up of equipment

Performance Criteria:

2.1 Set up and check stage monitor console, processing and amplification racks, and engineer’s monitor

2.2 Check that there is an adequate supply of resources in the event of equipment breakdown

2.3 Label stage monitor consoles and processing equipment so that functions are clearly identified

2.4 Position stage monitor equipment according to health and safety requirements

2.5 Crosscheck final set-up against production requirements

Element:

3. Adjust systems for performances

Performance Criteria:

3.1 Test all components of stage monitor systems, including a complete line check of all inputs

3.2 Individually equalise each stage monitor send to avoid run-away feedback and set top gain indication for microphones

3.3 Crosscheck all adjacent stage monitor sends to allow for acoustic interference

3.4 Run complete system up to safe working limit to check performance and mains power availability, taking into account front of house speaker system requirements

Element:

4. Manage operations during performances

Performance Criteria:

4.1 Reconfirm production requirements with performers and check that set-up meets individual requirements in relation to quality, balance and sound levels

4.2 Operate faders to produce a level appropriate to the required sound, and check each send in regular rotation

4.3 Make appropriate adjustments to equalisers to produce appropriate tonal quality

4.4 Add effects and other signal processing as required

4.5 Monitor sources and outputs both aurally and visually to ensure that production requirements are met

4.6 Maintain a positive working relationship with performers and others throughout productions

4.7 Troubleshoot and rectify stage monitor system problems during performances

4.8 Ensure that all work is undertaken in line with work health and safety requirements

Element:

5. Manage post-show operations

Performance Criteria:

5.1 Complete workplace documentation according to organisational procedures and production requirements

5.2 Handle, clean, maintain and store equipment according to organisational procedures

5.3 Clean and restore the work environment to its original condition

5.4 Involve crew members and performers in evaluations of stage monitor systems and modify procedures as required

5.5 Contribute to evaluations of productions and implement recommendations aimed at improving overall effectiveness of stage monitor systems


Learning Outcomes


On successful completion of this course you will have developed and applied the skills and knowledge required to demonstrate competency in the above elements.

Through the application of these skills and this knowledge, you will be able to:

  • Analyse performance and venue information to plan stage monitor systems
  • Select and manage the set-up of stage monitor equipment
  • Test, equalise, crosscheck and adjust stage monitor equipment
  • Manage stage monitor equipment and adjust controls including EQ and signal processing during performances
  • Manage post show operations including documentation and equipment storage
  • Evaluate the performance of the stage monitor systems at the conclusion of the performance


Details of Learning Activities

Learning and assessment will be made through:

  • Instructional classes
  • Practical Demonstrations of relevant equipment
  • Practical familiarisation exercises & assessments
  • Involvement in live event production
  • Completion of sound studio based audio post production


Teaching Schedule


1

Introduction to Radio Theatre

Course overview and introduction

·       Revision / Discussion of Cert 4 Mix Live Audio

·       Organising class splits

·       Stage Monitor Equipment and Storage

·       Stage Planning and mixing desk layout


2

Break into smaller work groups

·       Discussion and demonstration of assessment #1

·       Organising assessment groups    


3

·       Discussion and demonstration of assessment #1

·       Organising assessment groups

4

·       Tuning of monitor speakers for optimal performance of hand held radio and lapel microphones


5

·       Tuning of monitor speakers for optimal performance of hand held radio and lapel microphones


6

Assessment #1 of 3 - Research Assessment due


7

Assessment #2 of 3 - Operation of a small monitor system for a conference


8

Assessment #2 of 3 - Operation of a small monitor system for a conference


9

·       Discussion and demonstration of assessment #3

10

·       Discussion and demonstration of assessment #3

11

·       Practice for Assessment #3

12

·       Practice for Assessment #3

13

Assessment #3 of 3 – Operation of a monitor system for a small performance


14

Assessment #3 of 3 – Operation of a monitor system for a small performance


15

Assessment #3 of 3 – Operation of a monitor system for a small performance

 




Learning Resources

Prescribed Texts


References


Other Resources

You are advised to look at myRMIT for ongoing updated information.

It is recommended that you bring materials to classes to make notes, for example;

a pen and notepaper or a laptop computer. You will need to have either a USB thumb drive or a USB/Thunderbolt Hard drive (or both) to store and manage your media. Your teacher will advise you what to get when classes commence.

The University Library has extensive resources and provides subject specialist expertise, research advice, help with referencing and support through:

The learning Lab
www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/learning-lab
The Study Support Hub
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/study-support-hub
English for uni workshops
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/workshops/english-uni-workshops


Overview of Assessment

Assessment for this course will involve demonstration of practical tasks and testing of your knowledge.


Assessment Tasks

Students enrolled in Vocational Education and Training qualifications are assessed for Competency. To be assessed as Competent means you have consistently demonstrated the required knowledge and skills at a standard expected in the workplace.  

To be assessed as Competent in this course, you will need to complete each assessment task to a satisfactory standard. You will receive feedback from the teacher at the conclusion of each assessment task. 
 
You should refer to the assessment brief which is available through Canvas for full assessment criteria and due dates

Assessment Task 1: Research Assessment

Assessment Task 2: Practical Observation A - Operation of a small monitor system for a conference

Assessment Task 3: Practical Observation B - Operation of a monitor system for a small performance


Results that apply to courses that are delivered and assessed in accordance with competency-based assessment are: 

CA: Competency Achieved 
NYC: Not Yet Competent 
DNS: Did not Submit for Assessment 


Assessment Matrix

The assessment matrix demonstrates alignment of assessment tasks with the relevant unit of competency. These mapping documents are available through Program Administration if required.  

Other Information

Attendance:

Your learning experience will involve class-based teaching, discussion, demonstration and practical exercises

It is strongly advised that you attend all timetabled sessions. This will allow you to engage in the required learning activities, ensuring you the maximum opportunity to complete this course successfully.

 

Information about your studies:

You can access My Studies through the RMIT website for information about timetables, important dates, assessment dates, results and progress, Canvas etc.

 https://www.rmit.edu.au/students

 

Assessment:

Information on assessment including Special consideration, Adjustments to assessment, (eg. applying for an extension of time):

https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-exams/assessment


Academic Integrity and Plagiarism:

RMIT University has a strict policy on plagiarism and academic integrity. Please refer to the website for more information on this policy.

https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-exams/academic-integrity


Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning:

Credit transfer is the recognition of previously completed formal learning (an officially accredited qualification).

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is an assessment process that allows you to demonstrate competence using the skills you have gained through experience in the workplace, voluntary work, informal or formal training or other life experiences.  

Please speak to your teacher if you wish to discuss applying for Credit Transfer or RPL for the unit(s) of competency addressed in this course.

https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/enrolment/apply-for-credit

Course Overview: Access Course Overview